Chef's Trick for Using Up Strawberry Tops Is Pure Genius

Is there anything quite like eating a big, juicy strawberry on a warm summer day? It just feels like nature has given us healthy candy when we bite into a tangy, sweet strawberry, and who doesn't love that?

But what do you do with the tops? Leftover strawberry tops- ya' know, the pieces with the green leaves- are often discarded, but they can be quite versatile and useful. Content creator @plantyou (real name Carleigh) is a chef who loves to teach people how to use every bit of the produce they cook with, and she has a great tip on how to turn those strawberry tops into something incredible.

We are definitely going to be making this soon!

Easy, Homemade Strawberry Syrup For the Win

Carleigh, who wrote a book on zero-waste cooking, says you can combine the strawberry tops, water, and sugar in a pot and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and simmer the mixture on low for about 15 minutes.

Related: Brilliant Hack for Keeping Strawberries Fresh for Weeks Is a True Lifesaver

Once it's thickened, drain the liquid and use the remaining portions of the tops as compost. Now, you have strawberry syrup that pairs perfectly with yogurt, oatmeal, or some homemade ice cream.

Talk about easy and delicious!

Carleigh has many other great ideas for zero-food waste, like how to make homemade ginger ale or using celery leaves to flavor salads and soups .

More Ideas On Using Strawberry Tops

You can also use those tops for strawberry-infused water or tea. All you have to do is add the washed tops to a jug of water or brew them in hot water for a light, fruity flavor.

Soak the strawberry tops in vinegar to create a flavored vinegar for dressings and marinades. This would be perfect for a light steak marinade this grilling season!

Of course, you can also just blend the tops into smoothies for added nutrients, or incorporate finely chopped tops into baked goods like muffins or scones. Yes, you can eat the leaves!

For a pretty, light summer cocktail, use the tops as a garnish or muddle them in drinks. You can also place them in a jar with vodka or gin to create a fruity infusion that is perfect for the season.

The possibilities are almost endless, but one thing is certain- you don't have to waste those precious strawberry tops! Use them up and enjoy being one step closer to a no-waste lifestyle.

For more Delishably updates, be sure to follow us on Google News !